Today, as it is the first Monday in September, Canada is celebrating Labor Day, as it does every year. To mark your language study trip to Canada, LEC would like to take a moment to reflect on this day so dear to the nation.
Labor Day, a special day for Canada since 1872
The origins of Labour Day in Canada are said to date back to April 15, 1872, and the actions taken by the Toronto Trades Assembly. Originally, this Canadian Labor Day was established to give the country’s workers an opportunity to voice their demands, whether regarding wages or working conditions. Today, Labor Day is the third day of a long weekend in September before the start of the school year.
A day marked by activism, but also by fun
While labor unions continue to take the original purpose of Labor Day very seriously, Canadians mainly use the day to go on outings, visit friends, or relax with their families—something you may have the chance to see for yourself during your language study trip to Canada.
A relaxing day during her language study trip to Canada
Canadian football fans can also spend most of this long Labor Day weekend watching the games on TV: these special games are known as Labour Day Classics. Post offices and many businesses are closed on Labour Day in Canada.